Mapping the Psyche

An Introduction to Psychological Astrology, by Clare Martin

Lesson Seven: Constructing the Zodiac

Number Symbolism

The symbolism of number enables us to devise a comprehensive and coherent
interrelated system in which science, religion, art and philosophy
define and explore specific aspects of the whole without ever losing
sight of each other. [31]

We have already seen the
symmetrical distribution of the planetary rulers of the zodiac signs.
The twelve-fold structure of the zodiac is a model of the universe
(the macrocosm) and of each individual human being (the microcosm),
which is also symmetrically balanced, harmonious and extraordinarily
comprehensive. It is in this ordered symmetry that we can find the
core meaning of each of the signs of the Zodiac, and I want to describe
to you how the Zodiac is constructed in terms of the number symbolism
which runs right through astrology and without which astrology cannot
be truly understood. Number symbolism provides the central clue not
only to the interpretation of the astrological signs, but also to the
understanding and interpretation of the planets, houses and aspects,
as well as a host of other astrological techniques. It is the door
and the key to the door into a true understanding of the astrological
world of the psyche. As Jung discovered, number symbolism is not only
fundamental to astrology and to alchemy but can also be defined psychologically
as an 'archetype of order which has become conscious'. [32]

Although the 360º circle and the twelve 30º divisions
of the circle were originally devised by the Mesopotamian priest-astrologers
from the 2nd millenium BCE onwards, we owe the construction
of the astrological chart as it is used today to the symbolic mathematics
of the ancient Greek philosopher-mathematicians who, from the 7th century
BCE, made leaps and bounds in the development of the science, art and
craft of astrology. The ancient Greeks believed that truth was, by
its very nature, good, harmonious and beautiful, and they created a
symmetrical and well-balanced model of the universe, and of the horoscope
which, for the first time, they started applying not only to leaders
and kings, as personifications of their countries, but also to individual
human beings.

"Mapping the Psyche" by Clare Martin is a transcript of the first term
of an introductory course in astrology given for the Centre
for Psychological Astrology. In this first of three volumes,
the basic building blocks of astrological language are presented.
The reader is taken on a fascinating journey through the solar
system, the ancient planetary gods, and the energies and motivations
s ymbolised by their astrological equivalents; and then through
the signs of the zodiac, their elements and qualities, and the
ways in which different planets express through them. Alchemical
symbolism is included as a parallel map of the individual journey.
The book is well-illustrated, and is worthwhile reading for both
the beginner as well as the more advanced astrological student.

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